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What current type is used for TIG welding aluminum?

AC (alternating current).

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  1. DC electrode negative
  2. AC ✔
  3. DC electrode positive

Why: Set the welder for the base metal. Miller says AC for aluminum and DC for steel.

Huh, didn't know that: Miller says AC balance controls the cleaning, or etching, of the oxide layer off the aluminum.

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References

Answer: AC. Set the welder for the base metal. Miller says AC for aluminum and DC for steel.

  1. TIG It: How a TIG Welder Works (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/en-us/resources/knowledge-hub/tig-welding/how-to/tig-it-how-a-tig-welder-works-and-when-to-tig-weld
    AC for aluminum or DC for steel.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. TIG Welding Aluminum for Beginners (Miller) www.millerwelds.com/resources/article-library/tig-welding-aluminum-for-beginners-steps-1-2
    The balance function controls the cleaning, or etching, of the oxide layer off of the aluminum
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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